Where and when did the Cortes appear in Spain? For what purpose?

The Cortes in Spain appeared in order to provide support to citizens in the military sphere and in state affairs. They arose in the middle of the 12th century and consisted of elective assemblies. Such estates as the nobility, clergy and townspeople took part in the Cortes. The voices of the estates played a large role in the adoption of important state issues. The Cortes were responsible for the taxation system, military and judicial spheres.